The drugs on the streets have changed drastically over the last few years. People call it an overdose as if it is self- explanatory. As if the word tells the individual’s story from beginning to end. The word overdose represents the person doing too much, went too far, or simple crossed the line.
But let’s take a moment to think about how this word overdose quietly shapes how people see the person behind it?
In medical terms an overdose is classified as poisoning. It amazes me how the body doesn’t care if the substance comes in the form of a prescription bottle, or from a drug pusher, or a moment of emotional pain. The body responds the same way as if it has been poisoned.
So why do people insist on using a word that sounds like blame. instead of one that reflects devastation or harm?
My daughter Desiree’s toxicology report indicated she had 19 milligrams of fentanyl in her system. It takes 2mg equivalent to about 4 grains of salt to cause a person to lose their capacity to breath. This is a public health crisis, not a public perception. Desiree is a true story, like so many other young adults who passed away. Medical examiners need to start putting respect on their names and start calling it what it is.
